NEW SUPPORT FOR QUEENSLAND SMALL BUSINESSES

A new State Government initiative will provide Queensland’s small business owners with greater training support to boost their skills and grow their business.

Launching the Small Business Solutions initiative, Minister for Education and Training, Rod Welford, said it was one of the key aspects of the State Government’s $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan.

“Small business is a real driver of the Queensland economy,” Mr Welford said.

“It represents almost 97 per cent of all private sector business in the state and employs more than 610,000 Queenslanders.

“The Queensland Skills Plan puts a strong emphasis on small business - supporting skills development - because this sector is such a significant contributor to our economy.

“Our new Small Business Solutions Unit will provide new and existing small business operators with the tools to assess their skills needs.

“It will develop and offer high quality, flexible programs so that training is available when, where and how small business needs it.

“Existing business operators will be able to get support to identify their specific skills needs and tailor programs to meet individual situations.

“There will also be a program for new and intending business owners on researching a business idea, understanding the legal side of business, and obtaining finance.”

Mr Welford said he welcomed the support of the Queensland Small Business Advisory Council, which had provided an industry perspective on the concept.

“The Council’s support has been extremely valuable in ensuring the initiative offers the right type of support to small business,” he said.

Small business operators seeking further information can call 1300 40 60 80, or go to the website: www.smallbusinesssolutions.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000